The bike shop that I work at is in a college town, so we have many interesting people stopping in. Surprisingly enough, many of the more interesting people are not students, but professors!

One day, two professors who spoke very little English came in asking for a tire. They picked out one that they liked, and brought it to the register. However, from their description of the wheel, I knew that this particular tire would not fit.

I tried to convince them that it was the wrong size, but they insisted on buying this exact tire.

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I finally became so exasperated that I said, "I will bet you a million dollars that this tire will not fit."

Suddenly, their eyes grew big, and the one holding the tire clutched it to his chest. "A meeell-yon dollas?" He wispered.

I had to quickly explain that no, the tire was not worth a million dollars, as well as what a figure of speech was.

They finally left somewhat confused, but with the right size tire.

by Angus Rose

Through July 1, retail sales staff answered the contest call to submit a story of survival and perseverance in the face of challenging customers. The story titles with summaries that made the first round of qualifications are listed below, and each is now in the hands of our judges to decide on the top 10. You can read each story in its entirety by going to the contest landing page -- click here.

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Ten lucky story writers will each win over $1,000 in product prizes based on the contest judges' votes. Here is where you come in! Of those 10, one will be named the grand prizewinner, cashing in on a trip for two to Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2007. Three others will be named official "honorable mentions," and in addition to the valuable prizes, each will receive a gift certificate that can be redeemed toward attendance at an Outdoor Industry Association-sponsored event, such as Outdoor University, Mountain Sports Festival or the OIA Rendezvous. The grand prize winner will be announced at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2006. We will determine the grand prize winner and the three runner up winners based on popular vote (sorry judges) -- those among the top ten receiving the most votes win, it's that simple. This is for store pride, for knowing you have a winner amongst you, so vote as often as you like. Tell your friends. Tell your friends friends. Tell your dog -- but only if he can work a computer keyboard.

Did you miss out on this year's contest? Bummer, but no worries. If you haven't already done so, outdoor retail staff can get ready for next year by activating a subscription now at www.snewsnet.com/freeretail/snewsarticle-contest.html. Then, watch your SNEWS® for announcements calling for our next contest entries and get ready to be a winner.

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